Reading spaces to strengthen indigenous education and culture

2025 Brazil

Following a field mission to Brazil at the end of 2024, the John Cockerill Foundation entered into a strategic partnership with the OMUNGA Institute, renowned for its commitment to education and culture. Formalised in April 2025, this collaboration gave rise to the project ‘Creation of indigenous reading spaces in Uiramutã’, located in the Raposa Serra do Sol territory in the state of Roraima, northern Brazil.

04. Quality education
07. Affordable and clean energy
10. Reduced inequalities
The aim of the project is clear: to set up nine reading areas in indigenous centres in order to democratise access to knowledge and strengthen the cultural identity of local communities. This region, which faces significant social vulnerability and educational challenges, has more than 5,800 pupils and 421 teachers from six different ethnic groups. Thanks to the support of the John Cockerill Foundation, the libraries are now equipped with:
  • books showcasing Brazilian authors,
  • handcrafted furniture reflecting the local culture,
  • and educational resources tailored to teachers.
Upon launch, OMUNGA conducted a field expedition in July–August 2025 to meet with community leaders, teachers, and local education authorities. This immersion made it possible to:
  • accurately map needs,
  • identify priority themes,
  • formalise the communities' commitment by signing a collective charter.

9

reading areas created

6

ethnic groups

6000

beneficiaries

Training, equipping and providing long-term support

The project also includes:
  • the gradual opening of libraries,
  • the acquisition and delivery of books,
  • the organisation of training courses and educational development missions for teachers, promoting local resources and traditional knowledge.
The implementation of the project has encountered several significant obstacles, including the geographical isolation of Uiramutã, an internal reorganisation of the association, and heavy rains that caused flooding and landslides, further isolating the region. Faced with these circumstances, local communities had to reorganise their activities, impacting the initial schedule. Thanks to a strong capacity for adaptation and the solidarity of partners, the terms of intervention were continuously adjusted. A new expedition is currently underway to restart activities and ensure the delivery of books funded by the Foundation.